The Charlotte Business Journal recently reported that developer EB Arrow has proposed changes to the upcoming Waters Edge projects in University City. The project, originally slated to construct office development, has shifted focus to mixed-use residential and retail. For more insight, we caught up with Greg Watson, Executive Vice President of Development with EB Arrow.

What are your thoughts on the transition of the project to more mixed use/residential from office development? 

With the office market and workforce habits changing, it has become increasingly challenging to design a development centered around office spaces. By incorporating additional residential units, we are creating a community that is supported by a regional library, retail, and hospitality services. This residential development is essential to complement the University, the existing employment base, and the new corporations that have recently moved into the area.

How is the Waters Edge project offsetting traffic produced by new residential growth?

The rezoning of the property from a large retail format to a mixed-use residential and commercial development resulted in a reduction of traffic. Following this, a new project with a stronger focus on residential use has further decreased traffic flow.

What are some of the things you would like to see from the surrounding area that would enhance the project?

To complement our project, it would be ideal if the retail and vacant office space across the lake were redeveloped into a more vibrant, walkable village. This would enhance the overall appeal of the area, creating a lively and connected community.

What are you most excited about with this new development? 

The most exciting aspect of this project will be delivering a beautiful regional library that will serve as the foundation of the community for many years to come. We have partnered with Mecklenburg County, David Dillard of the Library system, Gensler, and JE Dunn for over three years to bring this dream to fruition.

University City Partners is excited to continue our collaboration with EB Arrow on the Waters Edge project as it changes the landscape of University City’s town center. –Drew Gaertner, Senior Manager, Economic & Land Development